One of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had on the Pure Wellness Podcast was with Dr. Stacy Hammond, where we discussed the often-overlooked journey of perimenopause. For so many women, this phase is confusing, frustrating, and even a little scary. But it doesn’t have to be. I believe that with the right support and information, perimenopause can become a season of empowerment—a time to reconnect with your body, embrace change, and step confidently into a new chapter of life.
What Perimenopause Really Feels Like
At around age 35 to 45, many women begin to notice subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes—irregular periods, mood swings, night sweats, low libido, and brain fog. These are the whispers of perimenopause, the transitional phase before full menopause. It’s not all in your head, and it’s not something you have to just live with.
Dr. Hammond explained that these changes are due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can impact everything from your metabolism to your sleep. Recognizing these shifts early can give you a head start on managing them before they escalate. You might find yourself more tired than usual, having trouble concentrating, or feeling emotionally overwhelmed in ways that are hard to explain. These are all valid experiences—and they’re more common than you think.
Understanding Your Hormones
One of the most empowering things you can do is get to know your hormones. Functional lab testing can provide insights into your estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol levels. This data can guide you and your provider in making informed choices about whether HRT (hormone replacement therapy) might be a good fit.
On our episode, we broke down the difference between synthetic and bioidentical hormones, and why customized HRT protocols are key to achieving balance without overwhelming the body. Bioidentical hormones are designed to mimic your body’s natural hormones, making them a popular choice for women looking for a more natural approach to hormone therapy.
Knowing your hormone levels also helps you see the bigger picture. For example, low progesterone can contribute to anxiety and insomnia, while declining estrogen may affect your skin, bones, and cognitive function. These aren’t just isolated symptoms—they’re part of a broader hormonal dance that deserves attention and care.
The Emotional Side of Hormonal Change
Let’s talk about the emotional toll. Perimenopause can bring on anxiety, depression, irritability, and even a sense of losing your identity. I’ve heard countless women share that they no longer feel like themselves. That’s where integrative wellness plays a huge role.
Things like mindfulness, breathwork, adaptogenic herbs, and a nourishing diet can support your emotional landscape. HRT can also help stabilize mood and reduce those dramatic hormonal swings. But emotional support isn’t just about supplements or protocols—it’s about feeling seen and understood. Having a space to talk about these changes, whether with a provider, coach, or trusted friend, can make all the difference.
I always encourage women to track not just their cycles, but their moods, energy, and sleep patterns. Awareness is the first step in reclaiming agency. Once you understand your emotional patterns, you can start designing your lifestyle to support your emotional health—whether that means prioritizing sleep, saying no more often, or giving yourself permission to rest.
The Power of Integrative Support
At One Body Medicine, we focus on combining traditional wellness practices with cutting-edge tools to offer women a truly holistic path forward. That means supporting hormonal shifts with personalized treatments that include HRT, targeted nutrition, IV therapy, and even regenerative tools like NAD+ infusions. But it also means addressing lifestyle, mindset, and the deeper belief systems that shape how we experience our health.
As women, we’re often told to ignore or push through discomfort. But perimenopause is not something you have to suffer through. It’s a wake-up call to tune in, reassess, and align your health with who you are becoming.
You’re Not Alone, and You’re Not Broken
This is the message I want every woman to hear: You are not broken. You are evolving. Perimenopause isn’t the beginning of the end—it’s the beginning of a new phase that can be even more powerful, connected, and alive.
Together with trusted providers and grounded information, you can navigate this transition with grace and confidence. I see it every day in the work we do through One Body Medicine and on the podcast. Women are stepping into their wellness journeys with intention and strength. They are showing up for themselves in ways they never imagined. And they are thriving.
So if you’re on this path, know that you’re not alone. You have options. You have tools. And most importantly, you have the power to take charge of your health, your hormones, and your happiness.
Let this be your invitation to slow down, listen to your body, and choose empowerment over fear. Your next chapter is just beginning—and it has the potential to be your most radiant yet.